50 | nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Shortland Farm Converted to fully organic seven years ago The couple converted to fully organic seven years ago and now carry full Asure Quality Organic Certification. Karen Phelps Rachel and Kenneth Short operate Shortland Farm, comprising two organic holdings near the coast in south-west Taranaki, close to Opunake. The couple converted to fully organic seven years ago and now carry full Asure Quality Organic Certification, a status that requires constant commitment to adhering to biological organic practices. While that reality may sound challenging, Rachel says that it really comes down to working with nature and, as she puts it, ‘farming under the ground as much as on top’. “We’re also self-contained that meant adopting organic methods was totally within our control. Actually there are a good number of organic farmers in our neck of the wood.” It is under foot that all the action really happens, Rachel says, meaning the couple have poured much time, energy and long-term commitment into improving the soils biology, the engine-room from where all the goodness grows. “It’s a simple philosophy really backed by solid science. If you concentrate on the soil, bring organic matter, encouraging worm proliferation and all sorts of good bugs, then the soil becomes this amazing medium to grow all manner of species on. Our vision is that our pasture resembles a salad bowl, so our herd has plenty of variety to choose from. Also different spcies of plant flourish at different times in the year, so it helps promote all-year round healthy pasture.” Managing cow health introduces an array of ‘tools’ at their disposal. Rachel says they were fortunate, back in 2017 to visit leading organic veterinarian the late Dr Paul Detloff who has devoted his life supporting farmers dealing with all manner of animal health condition. “He has a wealth of knowledge and such a sound, sensible approach to what really caring for your herd looks like in practise. The main thing about organic farming is that it is preventative in nature. We have good infrastructure and plenty of good paddocks.” Another attribute to their farming journey is the Shorts don’t have focussed goals in terms of production they work toward. Rachel calls it farming by ‘rolling with the season as it unfolds’. “It just works for us so well because we’re so in tune with nature. As a season changes we just go with it, ensuring pasture, animal and people health remain our priorities. It takes a lot of stress out of the system and how we approach each day.” This season the couple are milking 350 cows, given all their young stock are back on the home farm. Their other farm is 13 km’s away. A variable order sharemilker in their 7th season on the property operates farm two, which peak milks 200 cows full season once-a-day. Both farms use Halter technology. Along with all that goes in nurturing their farms Rachel also sets aside time to be involved in farm governance, belong to the Fonterra Organic Farmer Advisory Group, Dairy NZ Farm Environment Leaders and Organic Aotearoa. “They’re great forums to be a part of. It’s good to have interests wider than just our own farming situation.” Shortland Farm is also a Dairy NZ Case Study farm and the farm uses Welfarm, a vet assurance programme used to monitor diary herd health and wellbeing. “We also engage a soil consultant and use ocean-based fish, seaweed and lime to stimulate good soil health. As a result our soils are more airated, encouraging better root development.” With respect to cow diet Rachel’s approach is simple. “What we might call a weed isn’t a weed if the cows enjoy eating it. It’s part of their diet. Biological and Regenerative Organic farming systems coaching, with a focus on the most cost efficient and practical way to connect plants to soil to achieve the ultimate animal and human performance. GREG BARCLAY 027 450 5054 gregbarclay@xtra.co.nz www.soilconnection.net Supplers of inputs and advise for Soil, Plant and Animal Nutrition JesseWatt k jwatt@vbw.co.nz m 06 769 6080 Proudly supporting Shortland Farm Taranaki Accountants for Taranaki People Stephen Eichstaedt k seichstaedt@vbw.co.nz 9 7 Liardet Street, New Plymouth As a result we actually have very little true ‘weed’ on our farms.” Plans ahead are to put a contract milker on the home farm next season, freeing Rachel from the day to day milking routine. “All in all we’re very happy with what we have achieved over the years. It’s about small incremental gains that bring real value long-term.” Proudly supporting Shortland Farm
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